This study evaluates the impact of the treatment with L-Carnitine on the function of adults over 65 years, in conjunction with regular exercise. Simple randomization will be performed, distributing patients in 3 treatment groups, with L-Carnitine or Placebo, and with physical exercise at home or supervised.
The supplemental intake of L-carnitine improves the physical functioning of the pre-fragile and fragile elder of the community. Circulating L-carnitine levels increase after administration of the supplement. The impact on the function of L-carnitine in combination with physical exercise will be studied in a population of older adults in Montevideo. The sample will be divided into 3 groups, according to the intervention: Group 1: Patients who will receive L-Carnitine in addition to a manual to perform physical exercise at home. Group 2: Patients receiving L-Carnitine plus supervised exercise plan. Group 3: Patients receiving placebo and supervised exercise plan. All three groups will be evaluated for functional and anthropometric parameters: prior, during and after intervention. In addition, the dosage of L-carnitine and acetylcarnitine will be evaluated before and after the intervention.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
60
L Carnitine liquid, single daily dose of 2g orally.
Modified Otago exercise programme, 2 times a week with a duration of 45 minutes, to be supervised by a previously qualified and trained instructor. Follow up of the established plan includes an adequate monitoring, evaluating the evolution and the possible adverse effects that may appear.
Liquid substance, similar to the one containing L carnitine, in the same presentation
Hospital de Clinicas Dr. Manuel Quintela
Montevideo, Uruguay
Changes in elderly's function
Independence Scales for Activities of Daily Living
Time frame: 12 weeks
Gait speed
Gait speed measured after the intervention
Time frame: 12 weeks
Elderly's physical performance
Elderly's physical performance assessed by SPPB (Short Physical Performance Battery Protocol).
Time frame: 12 weeks
Changes in the expression of fragility criteria
The Fragility criteria will be measured according to criteria promulgated and validated by Fried. The 5 original criteria will be used, but some measures to characterize the fragility will be adapted to the modifications of Avila-Funes.
Time frame: 12 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
A schedule of exercises will be given in the consultation, which the patient will perform at home, without supervision